Former world No 5 Robredo vows to send home hero Murray packing at Wimbledon

As Roger Federer discovered on Wednesday, there is no opponent so dangerous as one who is playing freely - and no-one in men's tennis is playing more freely right now than Tommy Robredo.

Twelve months ago, the Spaniard, once ranked No 5, had fallen to 471 in the world following surgery on his leg.

Aged 30, he could have been forgiven for slipping quietly into retirement. Instead, he returned to the game, quickly won two Challenger tournaments and charged back towards the elite.

Danger man: Tommy Robredo, who is yet to drop a set at Wimbledon this year, faces Andy Murray

At last month's French Open, he became only the second player in history to win three consecutive Grand Slam matches from two sets down.

Such a frantic journey of rediscovery means that facing Andy Murray on Centre Court today will hold no fears for the 32nd seed.

'That's my motivation, why I am still playing, to play on a great court against one of the best players in the world on his home court,' said Robredo.

'It's an amazing emotion. You dream as a player to go into a huge stadium and try to beat the guy in everybody's hearts. Last month I played Gael Monfils at Roland Garros with 10,000 people supporting him, so I'm lucky, I have had matches like this before at Grand Slams. 'At this time last year, I was nearly 500 in the world. Now I'm No 29 and I'm enjoying playing. My comeback has been brilliant. Even more than I expected.

Raring to go: The British No 1 will meet Robredo on Centre Court for his third-round Wimbledon clash

'I am enjoying every day on the court. So what else can I ask for? Another match to come at Wimbledon and it's lovely to be here playing one of the best players. I prefer this than being at home.'

In an age when strict diets can become suffocating, Robredo treated himself to a hefty slice of chocolate cake with ice cream following his second-round win over Nicolas Mahut. Whatever happens against Murray, he will channel his dedication in moderation to prolong his career.

Robredo, 31, added: 'There is a lot more treatment available to players now. We are more professional. We travel with physios, with trainers and it gives us the chance to play longer.

Home support: The partisan crowd will be rooting for Murray on Friday

'Physically I am perfect. If you work hard and you have the correct practice, you can do it. That's the reason why older players are still in good shape.

'I heard that myself and Andy have played four times but the last time was in 2009. I know I beat him a couple of times but it will be completely different now.

'Andy Murray of five years ago is not Andy Murray of today. And Robredo of 2006 is not the same Robredo now. He's a lot more experienced now. He has improved a lot and he's going to be a great opponent. But we start at zero-zero.'